Cédric Etienne
Portrait · Interior Architect
Inside the Mind of Cédric Etienne: Exploring Spaces, Stories, and Stillness
Cédric Etienne blends the art of design with the serenity of meditation, crafting spaces that foster stillness and introspection. A graduate from Politecnico in Milan, Cédric has collaborated with luxury brands such as Giorgio Armani and YSL, but his true calling emerged through a deep personal journey. His project, Still Rooms, transforms cork into a symbol of tranquility, offering sanctuaries for inner peace and reflection. In this interview, Cédric shares insights into how his experiences with meditation and sacred spaces have shaped his unique approach to design, inviting us to explore the essence of stillness in our own lives.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work, and what inspired your project Still Rooms.
After graduating as an interior designer from Politecnico in Milan in 2010, I was captivated by the poetic potential of space. I had the privilege of creating conceptual environments for fashion shows, art exhibitions, and private events for renowned brands like Giorgio Armani and Chanel. In 2014, seeking a deeper connection with my true self, I went on a silent retreat to explore a more profound approach to creation. My research led me to cork—a material often undervalued despite its acoustic and insulative qualities. I was inspired to redefine cork as a noble material capable of creating serene and contemplative spaces. The result was the Still Room, designed to offer a space for grounding and reflection.
When did you first discover meditation, and how did it influence your work?
I first encountered meditation through the writings of the Dalai Lama at age 15, and Zen philosophy helped me find inner peace during my teenage years as a tennis player. It wasn’t until a 2015 silent retreat in Japan that I truly experienced meditation as an "architecture of silence." This experience prompted me to study Japanese sacred architecture and eventually led me to develop my own manifesto on how space can facilitate inner travel and detachment from distractions.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Ideally, I start my day with 20-30 minutes of meditation, followed by breathwork and physical exercise like bodyflow or running. I then enjoy a cold shower and some herbal or lemon water before heading to the studio. The first 90 minutes are dedicated to creative work, avoiding screens. Lunch follows, with afternoons reserved for meetings and evenings for guiding meditations, spending time with family, or meeting friends. I value spontaneity and creativity, balancing discipline with an open heart.
Do you incorporate any daily rituals into your routine?
Yes, rituals are essential for maintaining clarity and consistency. I incorporate rituals for both mind and body, such as weekend forest walks with friends or loved ones. I also think it's important to distinguish between daily rituals and special social gatherings, both of which contribute to a rich, grounded life.
What makes you truly happy?
Being fully present in time and space brings me the deepest happiness. Immersing myself in a state of stillness, creating, and sharing love are what fulfill me most.
What would you like more of in your life?
I am content with my current state but wish to help more people understand the importance of grounding and inner reflection. My aim is to encourage a deeper sense of life through the creation of meaningful spaces.
How did you find your voice in design, and what made you trust in your style?
Finding my voice has been a journey of evolution, trial, and reflection. It involves eliminating the unnecessary to get closer to my true essence. Trusting in my style comes from the joy and fulfillment I feel when creating and pushing my limits.
What challenges did you face in becoming an artist?
The path to becoming an artist wasn’t a deliberate decision but a natural response to a deep-seated creative energy. The challenge lies in staying true to oneself and avoiding egoic traps while creating freely.
How do you remain authentic amidst a world of comparison and influence?
Authenticity comes from a deep understanding of oneself. Meditation helps sharpen this connection and navigate the flow of influences. It’s about translating inspiration into something that aligns with your true self and creating spaces that resonate with universal connection.
What grounds you?
Besides being in full presence with my 2 daughters of 3 and 7 years hiking in the Swiss Alps, Conscious breathing is truly a practice that brings grounding stillness in life. And even stronger when experienced as a collective energy practiced during a meditative social gathering combined with spatial sound performance.
Does the desire for more ever cease?
I don’t feel enslaved by the desire for more. Instead, I practice living in the present and embracing gratitude. This mindset helps me stay focused on the richness of the now rather than being driven by endless desires.
Do you have any recommendations for those feeling overwhelmed in today’s fast-paced world?
Start by observing what creates discomfort and where the noise comes from. Gradually eliminate the unnecessary to cultivate inner space. Meditation can then help protect and expand this space, keeping you aligned with your deeper purpose.
Lastly, do you have any inspiring book and movie recommendations?
I recommend The Book of Tea, which explores the relationship between space, meditation, and social interaction, and profoundly influenced my view of contemporary ceremonies. For films, Otto Montagne is an ode to the simplicity of friendship, nature, and stillness.
Photo Credits: Teresa Pamplona | Tijs Vervecken | Clemens Poloczek